Effect of Feeding Fungal Zoospores of Orpinomyces joyonii in TMR on Nutrient Utilization and Rumen Fermentation Parameters in Murrah Buffaloes

Fifteen lactating buffaloes divided in three groups of five each were fed with a total mixed ration (TMR) consisting of wheat straw, paddy straw, concentrate and 5 kg green fodder/animal/day. In addition to that Orpinomyces joyonii (fungi isolated from domestic cattle) @ 10.7 x 106cfu/ml/day was added as zoospores in the diet of each buffalo of group II for an experimental period of 105 days to see their influence on nutrient utilization and rumen parameters of all the buffaloes before feeding. The digestibility coefficients (%) of DM, OM, CP, NFE, ADF, NDF and cellulose were significantly (p<0.05) higher in fungal zoospores administered group. The percent TDN value in fungal zoospores supplemented group was significantly (p<0.05) higher. The TVFA's, Total-N, ammonia nitrogen and TCA perceptible nitrogen was significantly higher (p< 0.05) in fungal zoospores administered group. The total no of zoospores/ml of strained rumen liquor was significantly higher in fungal zoospores administered group. From the above results, it can be concluded that incorporation of zoospores of Orpinomyces joyonii in total mixed rations improved the digestibility of proximate principles and rumen fermentation in lactating buffaloes.